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Food for Thought – Watermelon

Now I realize watermelon isn’t something usually eaten in the cold temperatures of winter, but I am just so stoked for my trip to Costa Rica that I’ve got tropical amazingness on my mind!

Here are some facts:

– This delicious thrist quencing fruit is also considered a vegetable as it is grown and harvested the same way as other vegetables, it’s also a member of a gourd family (Citrullus lantus) which includes squash, pumpkin and cucumber.

– They are just over 90% water – hydration for digestion

– They have a decent amount of vitamin A (helps with release of hormones, healing bones and tissues), and vitamin B6 (brain function and converting protein to energy)

– Lowers blood pressure helping with blood flow

– There are a few grams of fibre for a few slices eaten

– The rind has as many nutrients as the flesh

– The seeds have minerals like zinc and iron and they are edible – however for the nutritional benefit you would have to eat a TON of them

– They have more lycopene than tomatos which may help with disease prevention and possibly decrease muscle soreness

– They contain choline which aids with sleep, reduces inflammation and helps with muscle movement

– They also contain an amino acid called citrulline which is converted to arginine (another amino acid) by the kidney – this conversion process may lower the accumulation of fat in fat cells. This happens because an enzyme (known as TNAP) is blocked

– Wait until they are fully ripen – this equals more nutritent value – pick one with yellowish parts where it was sitting on the ground, has a softer skin (you should be able to scrape it off easily with your nail) and sounds hollow when you tap it

And a great way to enjoy this fruit is in a smoothie….bookmark this one for the summer!

Watermelon Mango Smoothie

2 cups Watermelon (seedless), chopped

1 Mango (as ripe as possible), chopped

2 Limes, juiced

1 tbsp Honey

2 cups Ice

Blend all ingredients until smooth.

And if you want to add a little spark, add your favourite tequila and a touch of orange liqeur 🙂